Urban pluvial flood modelling with real time rainfall information – UK case studies

Abstract

In order to effectively prevent, mitigate and manage urban pluvial flooding, it is necessary to accurately model and predict the spatial and temporal distribution of both rainfall and surface flooding. A number of different modelling and prediction techniques have been applied to three UK case studies. The case studies illustrated potential improvements in the duration of model simulations as well as localised rainfall estimation (downscaling). A method of describing uncertainty in flow forecasts has been illustrated. The provision of urban pluvial flood forecasts, however, remains a challenging issue and it is anticipated that a combination of several techniques may be necessary, depending on catchment size and required forecast accuracy and lead time.